Samos Island
Samos is an island in the northeastern Aegean Sea, lying just off the coast of Turkey. It is the birthplace of Pythagoras, the great mathematician, the philosopher Epicurus, and the astronomer Aristarchus of Samos, the first to suggest that the Earth revolves around the sun. According to myth, the goddess Hera was born in Samos, and her temple in Heraion (designated as an UNESCO World Heritage Site) was the largest in the ancient world. During antiquity, Samos was a powerful and rich island and an important trade centre, well known for its vineyards and wine production. The sweet Samian wine (muskat) is still produced on the island today.
Archaeological sites like the Temple of Hera, the Efpalinion Tunnel and the Roman Bathes are of great interest. In Samos Town (Vathy) the Archaeological Museum exhibits the Kouros of Samos, a 5,50 tall sculpture created in the 6th century BCE. In Pythagorion the visit of the Castle of Logothetis and the Archaeological museum with its exhibitions of the archaic era are worthwhile
Samos is an island of great beauty, with imposing mountains, long beaches and green forests.
Wild herbs and fragrant pines, olive groves and tamarisk trees, brightly coloured bougainvillea and oleander are just some of the highlights of the island, along with excellent bird watching. If your idea of heaven is to sit and daydream on the beach you will be amazed by the ever changing shades of blue in the sea and on the horizon as the fantastic Greek light works its magic.
Wether you seek a relaxing holiday, or you prefer to spend your time hiking, climbing or diving, then Samos is the place for you.
Efpalinion Tunel
Temple of Hera
Ormos Marathokampos
Ormos, the port of Marathokampos village, is a tranquil and idyllic place, considered to be one of the most picturesque villages of Samos. Situated on the southwest of the island, Ormos is the perfect place to enjoy your holiday. Underneath the shady roofs of traditional tavernas, choose your favourite table by the sea and experience typical Greek hospitality while enjoying delicious freshly cooked local dishes and a variety of locally caught fresh fish, washed down with fine Samos wine.
From Ormos you can travel around Samos by car or scooter to many fantastic destinations such as historical and archaeological sites; traditional villages hidden away amongst pine scented forests on the mountainsides; small unspoilt coves off the beaten track, and as you head back towards Ormos you will once again be overwhelmed by the stunning views of Mount Kerkis – over 1400 meters high – which seems to rise majestically from the sea, changing colour as the sun rises and again as it sets.
You can walk along mount Kerkis, an extinct volcano, and the second highest peak in the eastern Aegean Sea. Pythagoras’ Cave is located on this mountain, where Pythagoras was supposed to have found refuge when persecuted by the tyrant Polycrates. Built nearby the entrance of the cave, is the unique church of Panagia Sarandaskaliotissa.
At walking distance to Ormos, you will find Kambos with one of the longest beaches on the island.
Boat trips take you along the south coast to lonely bays and beaches.
Come and enjoy the experience of traditional Greek life whilst still being surrounded by beauty, peace and tranquillity.
